Healing comedy infused with a hint of risqué humor, a level of absurdity highlighted by a Tim Walz look-alike, ten incredibly talented Asian American women showcasing their craft, manga’s captivating “boys’ love” with a sprinkle of bondage, and an engaging game show themed around Genghis Khan—these eccentric elements all converged at The Extra Quality Super Show, presented by the Funny Asian Women Kollective (FAWK). The event illuminated the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul on Friday night, delivering a unique and delightfully chaotic experience that felt like a desperately needed surprise.
For some Minnesotans, it has been a chaotic period filled with post-election tension, while for others, it has unfolded as just another week dominated by mundane chatter about the weather, road constructions, and the monotony of Zoom meetings. Regardless of the backdrop, FAWK’s signature raunchy humor emerged as a comforting escape for weary hearts. The performers brought their fearless and unruly personalities to the forefront, cleverly reminding the audience that occasionally, you just need ten hilarious Asian American women and a dancing Tim Walz impersonator grooving to “Seven Nation Army” to navigate through life’s tumultuous events.
For approximately two hours, FAWK captivated the stage, boldly unraveling their identities as Asian women through a multifaceted lens. They took a deep dive into their values, dreams, and apprehensions—often intersecting with their experiences with men (both cisgender and queer) and, naturally, the omnipresent shadow of whiteness, which plays a significant role in Minnesota. These entertainers, each representing diverse Asian cultural backgrounds, were anything but stereotypes; none were the mere caricatures of Suzie Wong or Miss Saigon. Instead, every skit, film, and solo performance deconstructed the outdated perceptions of what it means to embody the identity of an Asian American woman, reconstructing them with a generous dose of bravery and humor.
Along the way, unexpected life lessons emerged. Jamie Kalakaru-Mava, an insightful South Asian American comic, introduced a radical strategy for confronting tough discussions with parents: simply postpone them until the parents have passed away. Her anecdotal evidence? Coming out to her father posthumously proved to be an eye-opening revelation. From May Lee-Yang, the audience was introduced to the intriguing world of “boys’ love”—a manga category thriving on romantic (and often sexually charged) interactions between male characters, primarily geared towards a female readership. Her observation that this subgenre can be surprisingly stimulating seemed to resonate, evidenced by my husband Brian’s noticeable squirm while sitting next to me, either stirred by the content or battling with the aftermath of his pre-show burrito.
Brian uncovered his significant epiphany through Naomi Ko’s surreal film that humorously depicted the Asian tradition of removing shoes indoors. His heritage includes Irish and German roots. After 16 years of marriage and my steadfast insistence on maintaining a shoeless household, FAWK finally helped him comprehend the reasoning behind this practice. The pivotal moment arrived when he watched a whimsical film featuring an anthropomorphic rug licking Ko’s sneakers, encapsulating perfectly the frustration I felt whenever he strolled through our home with muddy shoes.
More than 700 excited attendees squeezed into the Fitzgerald Theater, creating an electric atmosphere. Notably, the audience was a vibrant mix of prominent Asian American women hailing from the Twin Cities: professors, philanthropists, community leaders, media professionals, artists, and students all rallied in enthusiastic support for these unapologetic performers. The appreciation and applause echoed throughout, honorably deserved for a memorable night of laughter and introspection.
**Interview with Jamie Kalakaru-Mava: Comedian and Performer at The Extra Quality Super Show**
**Editor:** Jamie, thank you for joining us! The Extra Quality Super Show was a spectacular event. Can you describe the atmosphere of the night for our readers?
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** Thank you for having me! The atmosphere was electric—full of laughter, joy, and a touch of chaos. It felt like a vivid tapestry woven from our stories, our humor, and some absurdity, which truly resonated with the audience. From the Tim Walz look-alike to the gameshow inspired by Genghis Khan, the night was all about embracing our wild sides and escaping the mundane.
**Editor:** It sounds like a unique blend of comedy and cultural commentary. How did the audience react to the mix of humor and more serious themes surrounding identity?
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** The audience was incredibly receptive. We tackled heavy topics, like our identities as Asian women, through a lens of humor and absurdity. People were laughing, but you could feel the moments of recognition and reflection—they connected with our experiences. It was a reminder that laughter can be a powerful way to address difficult subjects.
**Editor:** You mentioned exploring the intersectionality of identity. What were some of the key themes that your group focused on during the performances?
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** We delved into our values, dreams, and fears while also confronting societal expectations and stereotypes. Each performer brought her unique background to the stage. We wanted to break down the caricatures of Asian women and show the world that, while our experiences differ, we share a common thread: navigating life’s complexities with humor and resilience.
**Editor:** That sounds incredibly impactful. You featured a radical approach to discussing tough topics with parents in your act. Can you give us a sneak peek into that strategy?
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** Absolutely! I suggested using humor as a tool for tough conversations, particularly with parents. By framing difficult discussions in a light-hearted way—or adding a humorous twist—you can create a more open environment where people feel less defensive. It’s about finding common ground and using laughter to bridge gaps.
**Editor:** It feels like we could all use a little more laughter in our lives, especially during these chaotic times. How has comedy helped you personally through challenging moments?
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** Comedy, for me, has been a lifeline. It allows me to process my experiences in a way that feels safe. Sharing laughter with others creates a sense of community that reminds us we’re not alone in our struggles. Comedy can heal; it brings awareness to our stories while also providing solace, bridging connections amidst a chaotic world.
**Editor:** Well said, Jamie. As artists continue to navigate these turbulent times, how do you see the role of humor evolving in the Asian American community?
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** I believe humor will continue to evolve as we redefine our narratives. The rise of diverse voices in comedy is just the beginning. As we grow bolder in telling our stories, humor will become an even greater vehicle for change—challenging stereotypes, sparking conversations, and inspiring more individuals to find their voice.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences, Jamie. It was an honor to talk about the importance of comedy in our lives and communities.
**Jamie Kalakaru-Mava:** Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to share more about our work and the impact of humor. It’s been a pleasure!
